Community Illicit Drug Forum could become annual event

An alarming rise in illegal drug use led to a couple of forums designed to address the issue.

The first was designed for lawmakers, law enforcement and educators working to stop the flow of illegal drugs while providing ideas for treatment. The second, a community open forum called, "A Night for Hope."

Both drew an audience beyond expectation said Al Bliss, a health educator with the La Crosse County Health Department. He says comments from those events will help the Health Department and Heroin and Other Illicit Drug Task Force focus on the most important aspects of drug use.

Given the success, Bliss says they plan to make these forums annual events.